Last week I took some time off work to get things done around the garage. I bought Hedman shorty headers (I'm on a budget) and noticed the extension the bolts to the collector goes right into the passenger side floor board. I assume the easiest option is to cut the extension down, but was wondering if there were any other solutions used. FYI for anyone buying them: The drivers side extension hits the pitman arm. Another issue for another day.
I have same headers on my 73 and have no issues with bolt hitting on pass side, driver side hits pitman arm.
I didn't; I've heard others use a BFH modifying collector to get less interference, but I don't think you can dent it enough to get full clearance of the pitman arm w/o negatively restricting exhaust flow. I've just adjusted to less turn radius in that direction and really when i installed them didn't want damage the nice silver coating. Also, I didn't use collectors that came w/ headers, ordered smaller ones that's what's on the car now. Others may chime in w/ what they have done in this situation. Been driving like this over 5 years, use too it now. Lastly, I would think Hedman making these long enough to have made mods to fix this.
I have the same headers and had the same issue. On the pass side, the exhaust guy cut the extension part off to make it a flange connection. On the drivers side, we used a 45° flange to turn it towards the oil pan and it clears the pitman arm. My car does not have power steering though.
Strange, I didn't have any problem on pass side, slide easily from under the car after unbolting idler from frame. I almost believe it would have gone in from top if not for heater and AC hoses. Maybe I look into what mods you n Craig made to solve this issue. Muffler shop I had install exhaust system does custom work, confident they can get it done.
